Likud MK Tali Gottlieb Denies Reports of Defection to Otzma Yehudit, Attacks Reporter Yaniv Megal

Likud Member of Knesset Tali Gottlieb strongly denied reports claiming she and Minister May Golan might defect to the far-right Otzma Yehudit party after the upcoming elections. The reports, aired by Channel 14 presenter Yaniv Megal citing sources close to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, suggested a "state of emergency" discussion was held in Netanyahu's office over fears that Gottlieb and Golan could take their mandates to Otzma Yehudit, potentially costing Likud two to three seats. Megal also claimed Netanyahu instructed his team not to interfere with party membership choices but that Netanyahu-aligned groups had begun efforts to remove Gottlieb and Golan from their lists.

Gottlieb vehemently rejected these allegations, accusing Megal of spreading "blatant lies" and fabricating the existence of any such discussion in Netanyahu's office, which she said was not even present at the time. She emphasized her loyalty to the right-wing camp and asserted she strengthens Likud electorally, claiming she alone could secure six seats if running independently. Gottlieb also launched a personal attack on Megal, linking him to controversial figures and accusing him of attempting to intimidate voters and smear her reputation.

She predicted an official denial from Likud would soon be issued and concluded by disparaging Megal's credibility and faith. The dispute highlights internal tensions within the right-wing bloc ahead of the elections and concerns about potential defections affecting Likud's electoral strength.